Douglas County HRA names Hanson-Ford as new executive director

ALEXANDRIA — The Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Douglas County has named Emajean Hanson-Ford as its new executive director.

Hanson-Ford’s background in leadership and state economic development programs, combined with her passion for the affordable housing and development, will help to further advance the organization's mission, “To provide safe, comfortable, and affordable housing; economic opportunity; and a suitable living environment free from discrimination.”

The Douglas County HRA has been a part of the community since 1972 and provides affordable housing services to both Douglas and Pope counties in West Central Minnesota. The organization owns 28 public housing units located in various communities throughout Douglas County, along with four multi-family apartment buildings and six duplexes.

Additional programs offered at the Douglas County HRA include Section 8 rental assistance, owner occupied rehabilitation loans, Bridges Rental Assistance, security deposit loans, and down payment assistance.

Hanson-Ford assumed the role of executive director on Monday, Feb.6, in which she will manage day-to-day operations for the Douglas County HRA along with the duties of financial management, marketing and communication.

The staff at the Douglas County HRA consists of the executive director and five full-time employees to date. Positions for a new property manager and a rehabilitation specialist will soon be open to applicants passionate about the community and its affordable housing needs.

For more information about the Douglas County HRA see their website at www.douglascountyhra.org .